Veteran Pakistani actor Shaan Shahid has expressed serious concerns about the state of Pakistan’s film industry, criticizing what he describes as a lack of originality, limited cinema releases, and an overreliance on seasonal festivals for box office success.
Speaking in a recent podcast interview, the film star reflected on the challenges facing local cinema and urged filmmakers to focus on creating meaningful and original content that appeals to a broader audience.
Shaan, who has appeared in more than 500 films during his decades-long career, said the industry has become dependent on Eid releases while neglecting the rest of the year. According to him, this trend has prevented the development of a sustainable movie culture in Pakistan.
“Today, films are mostly released on Eid, while the remaining months pass without major cinema releases,” Shaan said, emphasizing that a thriving film industry requires consistent content throughout the year.
The actor also criticized what he sees as repetitive storytelling and formula-driven productions. He argued that filmmakers have become disconnected from ordinary audiences by focusing on a small segment of society rather than creating content that resonates with the masses.
Shaan questioned the industry’s obsession with targeting specific generations and elite audiences, saying entertainment should be accessible to people from all social and economic backgrounds. He stressed that cinema should unite audiences rather than divide them based on wealth or lifestyle.
During the discussion, Shaan also revisited his decision to reject film offers from India, including a reported opportunity to play the antagonist in the blockbuster film Ghajini. He said he chose to remain committed to Pakistan’s entertainment industry and believes true success comes from strengthening local cinema rather than seeking validation abroad.
The actor also shared his views on the global streaming market, arguing that Pakistani filmmakers possess the talent needed to succeed internationally. However, he believes industry stakeholders often create unnecessary barriers by focusing too much on technical and administrative issues instead of innovation and storytelling.
Interestingly, Shaan revealed that he has not watched The Legend of Maula Jatt, explaining that he prefers looking toward the future rather than revisiting remakes of past classics. He emphasized that the industry’s long-term growth depends on fresh ideas and original productions.
Looking ahead, Shaan hopes his upcoming psychological thriller Psycho will encourage audiences and filmmakers to embrace new concepts. He believes Pakistan’s film industry can regain momentum if it prioritizes creativity, originality, and stories that connect with a wider audience.
